Masters in Civil Engineering in UAE

Checkout the Masters in Civil Engineering in UAE....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Apr 25, 2025 03:54:23

Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE for International Students


1. Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi)

  • Program: MSc in Civil Infrastructure and Engineering

  • Duration: 2 years

  • Tuition: AED 50,000 – 80,000 per year (scholarships available)

  • Highlights: Strong research focus, good industry links, and scholarships for international students.

2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) (Al Ain)

  • Program: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Duration: 2 years

  • Tuition: AED 40,000 – 70,000 per year

  • Highlights: Government-funded, good for structural, environmental, and transportation engineering.

3. American University of Sharjah (AUS) (Sharjah)

  • Program: Master of Science in Civil Engineering

  • Duration: 2 years

  • Tuition: Approx. AED 95,000 total

  • Highlights: Accredited by ABET, strong reputation, international faculty.

4. University of Sharjah

  • Program: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Duration: 2 years

  • Tuition: AED 60,000 – 80,000 total

  • Highlights: Flexible schedule (part-time/full-time), research opportunities.

5. Heriot-Watt University Dubai

  • Program: MSc in Civil Engineering and Construction Management

  • Duration: 1–2 years

  • Tuition: AED 60,000 – 70,000

  • Highlights: UK-based curriculum, global degree recognition.


Admission Requirements (General)

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field

  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL – usually IELTS 6.5+)

  • Academic transcripts

  • CV/Resume

  • Statement of purpose

  • Letters of recommendation


Scholarships & Funding

  • Many universities (especially Khalifa and UAEU) offer fully or partially funded scholarships.

  • Some offer graduate assistantships that cover tuition and provide a stipend.


Why Study in the UAE?

  • Booming infrastructure and mega projects (Dubai Expo, NEOM nearby in Saudi, etc.)

  • Diverse international student community

  • English-taught programs

  • Tax-free job market post-graduation

Universities in UAE


Universities Offering Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


Top Universities Offering MSc in Civil Engineering in the UAE

1. Khalifa University – Abu Dhabi

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Infrastructure and Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Structural, Environmental, Geotechnical, Transportation

  • Notes: Strong emphasis on research and innovation, competitive scholarships for international students

2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) – Al Ain

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Structural, Water Resources, Geotechnical, Transportation

  • Notes: Government-supported university with strong engineering programs

3. American University of Sharjah (AUS) – Sharjah

  • Offers: Master of Science in Civil Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Structural Mechanics, Environmental Systems, Construction Management

  • Notes: Internationally accredited, taught in English, diverse student body

4. University of Sharjah – Sharjah

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Construction Engineering, Structural Design, Infrastructure

  • Notes: Offers part-time and full-time options, good for working professionals

5. Heriot-Watt University Dubai – Dubai

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Engineering and Construction Management

  • Focus Areas: Project Management, Structural Design, Infrastructure Planning

  • Notes: UK-based curriculum, internationally recognized degree

6. American University in Dubai (AUD) – Dubai

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Sustainable Design, Construction Technology, Project Management

  • Notes: U.S.-style education, English instruction, modern campus

7. Abu Dhabi University – Abu Dhabi & Al Ain

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Construction Management, Structural Engineering

  • Notes: Accredited programs, good facilities, industry-focused curriculum

8. Ajman University – Ajman

  • Offers: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Focus Areas: Structural and Geotechnical Engineering

  • Notes: Affordable tuition, diverse student base

Study in UAE


Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


1. Bachelor’s Degree

  • A Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering or a related field (e.g., Structural Engineering, Construction, Environmental Engineering).

  • Most universities require a minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 out of 4.0 (varies by institution).

  • Some may accept related science/engineering degrees with relevant coursework.


2. English Language Proficiency

  • Required if your previous education was not in English.

  • Common tests accepted:

    • IELTS: Minimum 6.0 – 6.5

    • TOEFL: 79–90 (iBT)

  • Some universities may also accept Duolingo English Test or have their own internal exams.


3. Academic Transcripts

  • Official transcripts from your undergraduate studies.

  • Should be attested or certified by relevant authorities (e.g., Ministry of Education in your home country + UAE embassy).


4. Equivalency Certificate (Sometimes Required)

  • Issued by the UAE Ministry of Education.

  • Confirms that your bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a UAE-recognized qualification.

  • Often required for public universities (like UAEU, Khalifa University).


5. Other Common Requirements

  • Updated CV/Resume

  • Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter

  • 2–3 Letters of Recommendation

  • Valid Passport & ID

  • Some programs might ask for work experience, especially for part-time or executive tracks.

Engineering, Science & Technology in UAE


Course Duration of Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


Full-Time Study

  • Duration: 2 years (on average)

  • This includes coursework, research (or thesis), and final project.

  • Some programs (especially at international branch campuses) may offer 1.5-year fast-track options.


Part-Time Study

  • Duration: 2.5 to 3 years

  • Designed for working professionals.

  • Classes are often held in the evenings or weekends.


Examples by University

University

Program

Duration (Full-Time)

Duration (Part-Time)

Khalifa University

MSc in Civil Infrastructure Eng.

2 years

Available

UAE University (UAEU)

MSc in Civil Engineering

2 years

Available

American University of Sharjah (AUS)

MSc in Civil Engineering

2 years

Available

Heriot-Watt University Dubai

MSc in Civil Eng. & Construction Mgmt.

1–2 years

2–3 years

University of Sharjah

MSc in Civil Engineering

2 years

Up to 3 years

Abu Dhabi University

MSc in Civil Engineering

2 years

Available

M.Tech in UAE

 
Online Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


Universities That Offer Online or Hybrid Options


1. Heriot-Watt University Dubai

  • Program: MSc in Civil Engineering & Construction Management

  • Mode: Blended learning (mix of online and on-campus)

  • Flexibility: Suitable for working professionals

  • Notes: UK degree awarded; some courses can be taken online; exams may require physical attendance.


2. University of Sharjah

  • Program: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Mode: Some courses available online (especially for part-time students)

  • Notes: Mostly in-person, but has distance-friendly options depending on course and semester.


3. Abu Dhabi University

  • Program: MSc in Civil Engineering

  • Mode: Hybrid options; evening and weekend classes

  • Notes: Not 100% online, but has flexible learning formats with some online components.

Masters in Mechanical Engineering in UAE


Intakes & Application Deadlines for Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


Fall Intake (Main Intake)

  • Starts: August or September

  • Application Deadline: April to June

  • Most popular intake, with wider course availability and scholarship opportunities.

Spring Intake

  • Starts: January or February

  • Application Deadline: October to December

  • Not all programs are available in this intake. Good option if you missed the Fall intake.

Summer Intake

  • Starts: May or June (rare for Master’s)

  • Application Deadline: March to April (if available)

  • Very few universities offer Civil Engineering courses in the summer. Usually limited to short courses or electives.


University-Specific Intake Info (General Guide)

University

Intakes

Application Deadlines (Estimated)

Khalifa University

Fall & Spring

Fall: May–June

United Arab Emirates University

Fall & Spring

Fall: May

American University of Sharjah

Fall & Spring

Fall: June

University of Sharjah

Fall & Spring

Fall: June

Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Fall, Spring, Summer (Flexible)

Fall: Aug

Abu Dhabi University

Fall & Spring

Fall: July


Tuition Fees for Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


Tuition Fees for MSc Civil Engineering in UAE (Estimated)

University

Total Tuition Fees (AED)

Notes

Khalifa University

~80,000 – 100,000

Scholarships available for international students (many fully funded)

United Arab Emirates University

~60,000 – 80,000

Government university, lower cost, funding support available

American University of Sharjah

~95,000 – 105,000

ABET-accredited, paid per credit hour (~2,300 AED per credit)

University of Sharjah

~65,000 – 85,000

Affordable for both locals and expats; flexible payment plans

Heriot-Watt University Dubai

~70,000 – 75,000

UK degree; flexible study modes (evening, blended)

Abu Dhabi University

~75,000 – 85,000

Partial scholarships and discounts available

Ajman University

~55,000 – 65,000

One of the more affordable options for international students

American University in Dubai

~90,000 – 110,000

Higher tuition; U.S.-style education and campus experience


Additional Costs to Consider

  • Application fee: AED 200 – AED 500 (non-refundable)

  • Books & materials: AED 1,500 – 3,000 per year (varies)

  • Visa processing (if needed): AED 2,000 – AED 3,500

  • Health insurance: AED 1,000 – AED 2,500 annually (mandatory at most universities)


Scholarships & Discounts

  • Merit-based scholarships

  • Graduate teaching/research assistantships

  • Need-based aid or sibling/family discounts


Cost of doing Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


1. Tuition Fees

  • Range: AED 55,000 – 105,000 (for the entire program)

  • Depends on university and whether it's public (e.g., UAEU) or private (e.g., AUD, AUS).


2. Living Expenses (Per Year)

Expense

Estimated Monthly (AED)

Annual (AED)

Accommodation (shared/private)

1,500 – 3,500

18,000 – 42,000

Food & groceries

800 – 1,200

9,600 – 14,400

Transportation (metro, bus, etc.)

300 – 500

3,600 – 6,000

Mobile/internet

200 – 300

2,400 – 3,600

Health insurance

-

1,000 – 2,500

Personal expenses

300 – 600

3,600 – 7,200


3. Additional Academic Costs

Item

Cost (AED)

Books & Supplies

1,000 – 3,000

Application/Admission Fees

200 – 500

Thesis printing & project work

500 – 1,000


4. Visa & Residency (International Students)

Fee Type

Cost (AED)

Student Visa (annual)

2,000 – 3,500

Emirates ID, medical, etc.

500 – 1,000


Total Estimated Cost (for 2 years)

Cost Type

Total (AED)

Tuition

55,000 – 105,000

Living Expenses

76,000 – 150,000

Other Costs (visa, etc.)

5,000 – 8,000

Estimated Total

136,000 – 263,000 AED

In USD (approx.)

$37,000 – $72,000


How to Reduce Costs

  • Apply for scholarships or assistantships

  • Choose public universities like UAEU or Khalifa University

  • Live off-campus in shared housing

  • Use student discounts on transport and food


Admission Process for Masters in Civil Engineering in UAE


1. Choose the Right University & Program

  • Specialization (e.g. Structural, Environmental, Construction Management)

  • Tuition & scholarships

  • Location (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.)

  • Program format (full-time, part-time, hybrid)


2. Check Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field

  • Minimum GPA: usually 2.5–3.0 out of 4.0

  • English proficiency test (IELTS 6.0–6.5 or TOEFL 79–90)
    – Waived if your degree was taught in English

  • Letters of recommendation (usually 2)

  • Statement of Purpose

  • Updated CV/Resume

  • Passport copy and recent photos

  • Official transcripts, attested

  • Some may ask for a degree equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education


3. Submit Online Application

  • Most universities have an online application portal

  • Upload all documents (some may require physical copies later)

  • Pay application fee (AED 200–500)


4. Wait for Application Review

  • The university will evaluate:

    • Academic performance

    • English proficiency

    • Relevant work or research experience

  • Some programs may request an interview (online or in-person)


5. Receive Admission Offer

  • You’ll get a Conditional or Final Offer Letter

    • Conditional if you still need to submit missing documents or pass English proficiency


6. Accept Offer & Pay Initial Fees

  • Pay a seat reservation fee (part of tuition) to confirm admission

  • Submit any pending documents


7. Apply for Student Visa (International Students)

University will usually assist with:

  • Student visa application

  • Medical fitness test

  • Emirates ID processing

  • Health insurance


8. Enroll & Begin Classes

  • Register for courses

  • Attend orientation sessions

  • Classes begin in August/September (Fall) or January/February (Spring)


Scholarships for doing Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


1. Khalifa University Scholarships (Abu Dhabi)

  • Coverage: 100% tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and visa.

  • Eligibility: Strong academic record (GPA > 3.0), English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+), and research interest.

  • Type: Graduate Research & Teaching Assistant (GRTA) Scholarship

  • Highly competitive – ideal for research-focused students.


2. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships (Al Ain)

  • Coverage:

    • Full Scholarship: 100% tuition, stipend, health insurance.

    • Partial Scholarship: 50% tuition.

  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher.

  • Additional benefits for those who work as teaching or research assistants.


3. American University of Sharjah (AUS) Graduate Assistantships

  • Coverage: Up to 100% tuition waiver + monthly stipend (depends on assigned duties).

  • Eligibility: Strong academic background, good English proficiency, willingness to assist in labs or courses.

  • Note: Limited positions, competitive.


4. University of Sharjah Scholarships

  • Coverage: Up to 50% tuition discount for high-performing students.

  • Eligibility: Good academic record and financial need.

  • Notes: Available to both UAE nationals and international students.


5. Heriot-Watt University Dubai – Merit Scholarships

  • Coverage: 10% to 50% tuition discount based on academic performance.

  • Eligibility: GPA ≥ 3.5 or first-class honors in undergrad.

  • Note: UK-based campus; scholarships are limited and competitive.


6. Abu Dhabi University Scholarships

  • Coverage:

    • Merit-based: 10% – 25% tuition reduction

    • Family or alumni discounts

    • Athletic or talent-based scholarships

  • Eligibility: GPA and academic record; may require interviews or extra documents.


7. Ajman University

  • Coverage: Up to 30–50% discount for international students with excellent academic records.

  • Notes: Affordable tuition to begin with, so the total cost can be quite low with scholarship.


Tips to Increase Scholarship Chances:

  • Apply early (some scholarships close before admission deadlines).

  • Write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP).

  • Get recommendation letters from professors/employers.

  • Highlight research experience or professional work in civil engineering.

  • Maintain a high GPA in your undergrad.

 
Career after Masters in Civil Engineering  in UAE


Top Career Options After MSc in Civil Engineering (UAE)

Role

Typical Salary (AED/month)

Structural Engineer

10,000 – 18,000

Project Engineer

10,000 – 16,000

Site Engineer

8,000 – 14,000

Construction Manager

15,000 – 25,000+

Transportation Engineer

12,000 – 18,000

Geotechnical Engineer

10,000 – 16,000

Quantity Surveyor

10,000 – 20,000

Civil Engineering Consultant

15,000 – 22,000

BIM (Building Information Modeling) Engineer

12,000 – 20,000

Environmental/Water Resource Engineer

10,000 – 17,000


Major Employers in the UAE

  • Government & Semi-Government:

    • Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi Municipality, RTA, ADSSC, DEWA, SEWA

  • Engineering & Construction Firms:

    • AECOM, Parsons, Khatib & Alami, WS Atkins, Dar Al-Handasah, Arup

  • Developers & Contractors:

    • Emaar, Nakheel, Aldar, Arabtec, DAMAC

  • Consultancies & PMCs:

    • Jacobs, Turner & Townsend, Arcadis


In-Demand Specializations

  • Construction Management

  • Structural Design

  • Sustainable/Green Building

  • Transportation & Urban Planning

  • Water & Environmental Engineering

  • BIM and Smart Construction Technologies


Visa & Work Permit After Graduation

  • After graduation, you can:

    • Transfer to an employment visa if hired

    • Apply for a job seeker visa (valid for 6 months)

    • Some universities assist with job placements or career fairs


Long-Term Opportunities

  • Move into project leadership or consulting roles

  • Work on mega projects (airports, smart cities, ports, etc.)

  • Transition to roles in Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman)

  • Pursue a PhD in Civil or Structural Engineering (many universities in UAE offer it)